Bob Golson’s legacy is one of dedication, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to people. Throughout his career, he helped shape the collegiate recreation profession through professional service, mentorship, and a deep belief in investing in the future of students and the profession. His influence extended well beyond James Madison University (JMU), touching colleagues and recreation professionals throughout the NIRSA community.
Bob passed away on September 29, 2026. Although he will be deeply missed, his contributions to collegiate recreation and the many lives he influenced will continue to shape the profession for years to come.
A big heart
Bob’s commitment to NIRSA and the NIRSA Foundation reflected his belief in the importance of giving back to the profession and creating opportunities for future generations. In 2020, he received the NIRSA Foundation Leadership Award in recognition of his dedication to the Foundation and his fundraising efforts to establish James Madison’s UREC Student Employee Scholarship Endowment. Nearly 30 students have been beneficiaries of this meaningful endowment.
The scholarship initiative was a particularly meaningful expression of Bob’s values. He understood that student employees are much more than the people who support the daily operations of recreation facilities and programs. They are developing leaders, building professional skills, and preparing for their futures. Through his efforts to establish scholarship support, Bob helped create opportunities for students to continue their education and pursue their goals.
A leader in the field
Bob also shared his professional knowledge and experience through presentations at state and national conferences. He believed in the value of collaboration and the importance of experienced professionals sharing their expertise to strengthen the field. His commitment to student development, professional growth, and service exemplify the values that make collegiate recreation such an important part of higher education.
At James Madison University, Bob dedicated nearly 27 years to University Recreation (UREC), beginning in October 1998 as Coordinator of Intramural Sports/Informal Recreation and ultimately serving as Associate Director for Facilities and Operations. He played important roles in the opening of University Park, the expansion and renovation of UREC, and the department’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. He retired in May 2025 as a JMU emeritus faculty member.
A Dukes legend
Beyond his operational leadership, Bob mentored hundreds of student officials, operations supervisors, and professional colleagues. His leadership was grounded in humility, consistency, and genuine care for others. A colleague captured his influence in Bob’s 2020 JMU All Together One Award recognition, writing, “I am a better employee and person because of Bob and I’m sure many others would say the same.”
Bob’s contributions to JMU were also recognized through the 2020 All Together One Award from Omicron Delta Kappa, honoring his commitment to collaboration and service across the university. His additional university roles included serving as a facilitator for the Madison Collaborative, Faculty Chair for the Office of Student Accountability and Restorative Practices, and adjunct faculty member in the Department of Kinesiology.
A legacy that lives on
Away from his professional life, Bob cherished his relationships and the people who made his life special. He met his wife, Donna Strickler, in Harrisonburg, and they married on May 24, 2008. Together, they enjoyed traveling, supporting JMU athletics, building community connections, and sharing time with family and friends.
Bob’s legacy lives on through the scholarship initiative he helped establish, the colleagues and students he mentored, and the many recreation professionals who benefited from his willingness to serve and share his knowledge. His career reminds us that the strength of collegiate recreation is built not only through facilities, programs, and services, but through people who dedicate themselves to helping others succeed.
Bob embodied the spirit of collegiate recreation through a lifetime of practical service, quiet leadership, and genuine care. His influence will endure at NIRSA, at James Madison University, and across the profession he so generously served.
He will be remembered with gratitude, missed with affection, and honored through the many lives his service helped shape.
- If you would like to share historically significant milestones or legacy details with NIRSA, contact a member of theNIRSA History and Legacy Committee.
